Are pfhrp2 and pfhrp3 Deletions a Concern in Latin America? A Critical Review

Plasmodium falciparum with deletions in the pfhrp2 and pfhrp3 genes has increasingly challenged national malaria control efforts worldwide by reducing the reliability of HRP2-based rapid diagnostic tests. This review explores available reports and evidence on this issue across Latin America. The results show a varied distribution, with countries such as Peru, Colombia, and Brazil reporting the emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant strains. Meanwhile, Caribbean countries and parts of Central America report low prevalence or no deletions. Understanding these patterns is essential for adjusting surveillance strategies, especially in countries nearing malaria elimination.